CA PLS Exam Preparation
Comprehensive preparation for the California Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) exam. Based on the January 2025 Test Plan with 6 modules and 57 topics. Content adapted from CalTrans LS/LSIT Video Exam Preparation Course materials.
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Module 1: Business Practices and Project Management
1Explaining Land Surveying to the Public2Proposals and Contracts3Procuring Surveying Services4Directing Personnel5Coordinating with Third Parties6Project Standards7Project Execution Planning8Monument Preservation9Managing a Surveying Business10Subdivision Map Act11Professional Land Surveyors Act12Conflicts of Interest
Module 2: Research, Project Planning and Preparation
Module 3: Field Operations and Investigations
Module 4: Analysis and Evaluation
33Analyzing Field Evidence and Documentation34Evaluating Historic vs. Measured Accuracy35Spatial Relationships of Maps and Data36Boundary Location Conflicts37Title Conflicts38Survey Adjustments (Least Squares, Error Analysis)39Quality Assurance and Control40Reconciling Deeds with Field Evidence41Technology Limitations in Practice
Module 5: Mapping and Document Preparation
Lesson 7
Hydrographic Surveys
Hydrographic Surveys
Overview
Hydrographic surveys determine underwater topography, water depths, and shoreline positions. These surveys support navigation, dredging, flood control, and property boundary determination.
Learning Objectives
- Understand hydrographic survey methods
- Collect bathymetric data
- Determine shoreline boundaries
- Produce hydrographic products
Key Concepts
Depth Measurement Methods
Techniques for measuring water depth:
- Single-beam sonar
- Multi-beam sonar
- Lead line (traditional)
- Sub-bottom profiling
- LiDAR (shallow water)
Positioning for Hydrography
Locating depth measurements:
- GNSS positioning
- Range-azimuth methods
- Acoustic positioning
- Integrated systems
Tidal Considerations
Accounting for water levels:
- Tidal datum references
- Water level observations
- Gauge installation
- Datum conversions
Boundary Applications
Hydrographic surveys for boundaries:
- Mean high/low water determination
- Ordinary high water mark
- Navigable water boundaries
- Riparian and littoral rights
Key Terms
- Bathymetry: Measurement of water depths
- Sounding: Individual depth measurement
- Tidal Datum: Reference surface for water levels
Practice Questions
- What methods are used to measure water depths in hydrographic surveys?
- How are soundings referenced to a consistent vertical datum?